Define the transport task
Conveyor technology for in-plant material flow is selected from a clearly defined transport task. Load carrier, dimensions, weight, frequency, takt, origin, destination, return flow, environment and traceability are defined for every relation. The time profile distinguishes average flow from critical peaks.
Technology selection
Roller, chain and belt conveyors, overhead systems, cranes, transfer cars, forklifts, tugger trains, AGV and AMR are compared against the same requirements. Fixed systems suit stable, high-frequency relations; free-moving vehicles retain flexibility where relations or layout change.
System integration
Buffers and decoupling points protect the overall flow against local failure. Layout integration covers crossings, escape routes, doors, levels, maintenance access and transfer stations. Controls, order messages, status, exceptions and safe fallback modes are specified across system boundaries.
Results and deliverables
- Transport-task sheet and time profile
- Technology comparison and preferred concept
- Performance, buffer and availability design
- Integrated route and equipment layout
- Interface and safety requirements
- Requirement specification, investment estimate and acceptance criteria
Technical basis and limitations
The decision starts with the transport task: load, origin, destination, time profile, takt, buffer need, return flow, environment and expansion requirement. Only then are fixed conveyors, cranes, industrial trucks, AGV or AMR compared. The system boundary includes transfer points and controls so that cost and availability are not reported for isolated equipment only.
Requirement and acceptance criteria are made testable before tendering. The distinction between “what and why” and “how and with what” follows VDI/VDE 3694; current requirements for the integrated machinery are coordinated with the responsible disciplines. Further reading: choosing conveyors, AGV or forklifts.